Check out suggestions of literary works to remember and celebrate the importance of this date
On March 8, “International Women’s Day” is celebrated. Celebrated for the first time in 1911, in countries such as Austria, Germany, Denmark and Switzerland, the date represents a tribute to the struggles and achievements of women for equality and respect. Recognized by the UN (United Nations World Organization) in 1975, the day also became an occasion to encourage female figures to seek their rights.
In this context, an important ally is books. This is because, through writing, writers such as Maria da Penha, Michelle Obama and Carolina Maria de Jesus manifest their stories, their political anxieties and social demands that inspire other women to break limiting patterns and create their own narratives. Therefore, check out 5 literary works written by these and other authors to understand the female struggle and celebrate the date.
1. In Search of Me – Viola Davis
An autobiography of the famous American actress and producer Viola Davis, winner of the oscar, in 2017, as a supporting actor in the film “A limit between us”. This book invites readers to get to know the actress in her heart, from a dreamy South Carolina girl to her fears, her insecurities and her recognition as a strong woman.
Narrating her story from childhood to stardom, Viola tells how she always fought to escape her past and seek a purpose for which she could be heard in a world that couldn’t see her. Throughout 17 chapters, it is possible to see how the writer matured in different stages of life until she became a worldwide phenomenon.
two. I survived… I can tell – Maria da penha
Also known for calling the Maria da Penha law, as Law nº 11.340/2006 became known in Brazil, Maria da Penha Maia Fernandes was a victim of domestic violence and, almost, her history it didn’t have a fatal ending. After fighting for her attacker to be convicted and becoming the leader of several social movements in favor of women, Maria da Penha wrote an autobiography.
Telling her story as a way to help other women live a life free of violence, the writer describes what her marital relationship was like and reveals details of the aggressions she was subjected to. In addition, over 220 pages, Maria da Penha demonstrates how the process was set up and run so that her aggressor was punished.
3. My Story – Michelle Obama
American lawyer and writer Michelle Obama, also known for being the first African-American to hold the position of First Lady of the United States, has become one of the revolutionary milestones for women around the world. As a black woman and hard-working, her story is an inspiration for anyone who dreams of achieving their goals and developing new scenarios for minorities.
Therefore, in “My Story”, readers delve into Michelle’s trajectory and experiences, from childhood on the South Side, Chicago, to her life as an executive and mother and the period in which she began to reside in the White House. Throughout the chapters, she even describes her triumphs and disappointments, both public and private, and the experiences that made her one of the most captivating women of the 21st century.
4. I am Malala – Malala Yousafzai and Christina Lame
Considered one of the greatest symbols of feminist activism in recent times, Malala Yousafzai became known after being shot in the head at close range inside a bus, when returning from school. That’s because she refused to remain silent and fought for her right to study when the Taliban took control of the Swat Valley.
Inspired by her story, in this book, Malala, in collaboration with British journalist Christina Lame, narrates her childhood in Pakistan, from her early years at school to the repression of female education, as well as highlighting the social inequality suffered by an exiled population under the Taliban command. While reading, it is still possible to follow the obstacles faced by women in a society that values male children.
5. Eviction Room – Carolina Maria de Jesus
Carolina de Jesus is considered one of the most important black writers in Brazil. One of the first to write about the daily life of people who live in the favela, through this book, she recounts her own experiences in a scenario surrounded by poverty, social inequality and misery. With simple and moving writing, the writer takes the reader to delve into the experiences and feelings of people who live in poor communities, such as Canindé, in São Paulo, to promote a more sensitive and empathetic look.
Source: Maxima
I am an experienced author and journalist with a passion for lifestyle journalism. I currently work for Buna Times, one of the leading news websites in the world. I specialize in writing stories about health, wellness, fashion, beauty, interior design, and more. My articles have been featured on major publications such as The Guardian and The Huffington Post.